Chinese Chewies
Chinese Chewies are dense, chewy bars packed with coconut and nuts, offering a rich, sweet flavor with hints of vanilla. Perfect as a snack or dessert, they appeal to those who enjoy moist, nutty treats with a touch of tropical coconut. An easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream margarine and brown sugar together until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- Add remaining ingredients: self-rising flour, coconut, nuts, and vanilla flavoring, and mix well.
- Pour the thick mixture into a prepared pan.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until done. Do not overcook.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you want to add a twist, try incorporating dried fruits or chocolate chips along with the coconut and nuts. For nut allergies, substitute with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether. Make sure to measure the self-rising flour accurately for the right texture. If you're looking for more ideas, check out other Chinese recipes for inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
These Chinese Chewies are perfect as a snack or dessert. Serve them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. You can also pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. They make a great addition to a dessert platter alongside other treats, such as the popular Chinese Noodle Oodles.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Chinese Chewies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes or reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm, chewy treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Chewies contains roughly 1421 calories, with 20g protein, 181g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (41% of the Daily Value) and protein (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 507mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising flour?
Yes, you can use regular all-purpose flour, but you'll need to add baking powder to achieve the same rise. For each cup of flour, add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt to mimic self-rising flour's effects.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
For a vegan option or if you're out of eggs, you can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of mashed banana. This will keep the mixture moist while adding a hint of sweetness.
How can I make these Chewies more chewy?
To enhance the chewiness of your Chinese Chewies, reduce the baking time slightly to ensure they remain soft in the center. You can also add an extra tablespoon of coconut for additional moisture and texture, or use brown sugar instead of white sugar for a deeper flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).